Mobile radiographic apparatus/methods with tomosynthesis capability

ABSTRACT

A mobile radiography apparatus has a moveable (e.g., wheeled) transport frame and an adjustable column mounted at the frame. A boom apparatus supported by the adjustable column can support an x-ray source assembly. Radiation or X-ray source assembly methods and/or apparatus embodiments can provide mobile radiography carts a capability to direct x-ray radiation towards a subject from one or a plurality of different source positions, where the X-ray source assembly includes a first x-ray power source and a second plurality of distributed x-ray sources disposed in a prescribed spatial relationship.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/862,162, filed Jan. 4, 2018, in the name ofFoos, et al, entitled MOBILE RADIOGRAPHIC APPARATUS/METHODS WITHTOMOSYNTHESIS CAPABILITY, which is a divisional application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/375,944, filed Jul. 31, 2014, in the nameof Foos, et al. entitled MOBILE RADIOGRAPHIC APPARATUS/METHODS WITHTOMOSYNTHESIS CAPABILITY, which is itself a 371 National StageApplication of earlier filed PCT Application PCT/US2013/027025 filedFeb. 21, 2013 entitled MOBILE RADIOGRAPHIC APPARATUS/METHODS WITHTOMOSYNTHESIS CAPABILITY, in the name of Foos. et al., which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional application U.S. Ser. No. 61/601,663,provisionally filed on Feb. 22, 2012, entitled PORTABLE TOMOSYNTHESISSYSTEM USING DISTRIBUTED X-RAY SOURCE ARRAY, in the name of Foos, et al.which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to the field of medical imaging, and inparticular to mobile radiographic imaging apparatus. More specifically,the invention relates to a mobile radiography apparatus havingadditional tomosynthesis capability.

BACKGROUND

Tomography (also referred to as x-ray computed tomography or computedtomography (CT)) is a well known medical digital imaging method createdby computer processing. Digital image processing is used to generate athree-dimensional image of the inside of an object from aseries/collection of two-dimensional x-ray images taken around a singleaxis of rotation. In CT, a source/detector makes a complete 360-degreerotation about the subject obtaining a complete volume of data fromwhich images may be reconstructed. The volume of data produced by the CTsystem is manipulated to generate body structures. The images can begenerated in the axial or transverse plane (e.g., perpendicular to thelong axis of the body) or reformatted in various planes or a volumetricthree-dimensional representation.

Tomosynthesis combines digital image capture and processing withsource/detector motion used in tomography. While there are somesimilarities to CT, some view it as a separate technique. As notedabove, in CT, the source/detector makes a complete 360-degree rotationabout the subject obtaining a complete set of data from which images maybe reconstructed. In digital tomosynthesis, a small rotation angle(e.g., 30 degrees) with a small number of discrete slices/exposures(e.g., 10) are used. This incomplete set of data is digitally processedto yield images similar to tomography with a limited depth of field.Since the image is digitally processed, a series of slices at differentdepths and with different thicknesses can be reconstructed from the sameacquisition, thereby saving time and radiation exposure. Because thetomosynthesis data acquired is incomplete, tomosynthesis does not offerthe narrow slice widths that CT offers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An aspect of this application is to advance the art of mobileradiography.

Another aspect of this application to address in whole or in part, atleast the foregoing and other deficiencies in the related art.

It is another aspect of this application to provide in whole or in part,at least the advantages described herein.

Another aspect of the application is to provide methods and/or apparatusby which mobile radiography carts can additionally include tomosynthesiscapabilities.

Another aspect of the application is to provide methods and/or apparatusby which mobile radiography carts can be modified to operate in a firstmode to obtain at least one general radiography projection image of anobject using a first type central x-ray source, and to operate in asecond mode to obtain a plurality of x-ray tomosynthesis projectionimages of an object using a plurality of second type distributed x-raysources.

Another aspect of the application is to provide methods and/or apparatusby which mobile radiography carts can include an X-ray source assemblyincluding a first central x-ray high power source and a second pluralityof distributed x-ray lower power sources disposed in a prescribedspatial relationship.

Another aspect of the application is to provide methods and/or apparatusby which mobile radiography carts can include an X-ray source assemblyincluding a plurality of distributed x-ray power sources where at leastone central source of the distributed x-ray power sources has full(e.g., standard) X-ray power.

In accordance with one embodiment, the present invention can provide amobile radiography apparatus that can include a moveable transportframe, an adjustable support structure coupled to the moveable transportframe, an x-ray source assembly mounted to the adjustable supportstructure configured to direct x-ray radiation towards a subject fromone or a plurality of different source positions, where the x-ray sourceassembly includes a first x-ray power source and a second plurality ofdistributed x-ray sources disposed in a prescribed spatial relationship,control circuitry at the mobile x-ray radiography apparatus and coupledto the x-ray source assembly, the control circuitry configured toreceive projection image data sets for reconstruction of tomosynthesisimages.

In accordance with one embodiment, the present invention can provide amethod for operating a portable x-ray radiography apparatus, the methodcan include one or more processors performing processes for operating ina first mode, where operating in the first mode includes obtaining atleast one general radiography projection image of an object using afirst type central x-ray source, and generating a reconstruction of theobject using the at least one general radiography projection image, andoperating in a second mode, where operating in the second mode includesobtaining a plurality of x-ray tomosynthesis projection images of anobject using a plurality of second type distributed x-ray sourcesdisposed in a prescribed spatial relationship, and generating athree-dimensional reconstruction of the object using the x-rayprojection images.

These objects are given only by way of illustrative example, and suchobjects may be exemplary of one or more embodiments of the invention.Other desirable objectives and advantages inherently achieved by thedisclosed invention may occur or become apparent to those skilled in theart. The invention is defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of exemplary embodiments of the invention, as illustrated inthe accompanying drawings.

The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative toeach other.

FIG. 1 is a diagram that shows a perspective view of a mobileradiography unit with a second display according to one embodiment ofthe application.

FIG. 2 is a diagram that shows a perspective view of a mobileradiography unit of FIG. 1 positioned for travel.

FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows an exemplary embodiment of adisplay/monitor as a second display mounted to a boom assembly of amobile radiography unit according to the application.

FIG. 4 is a diagram that illustrates an embodiment of a single sign onscreen according to the application.

FIGS. 5-8 are diagrams that illustrate exemplary functions implementedat an embodiment of a second display of a mobile x-ray imagingapparatus.

FIG. 9 is a diagram that shows a perspective view of a mobileradiography unit that can provide a tomosynthesis capability accordingto embodiments of the application.

FIG. 10 is a diagram that shows exemplary mobile radiographic imagingsystems including an x-ray source assembly embodiment that can includefirst and second radiographic x-ray sources according to theapplication.

FIG. 11 is a diagram that shows exemplary mobile radiographic imagingsystems including an x-ray source assembly embodiment that can includefirst and second radiographic x-ray sources according to theapplication.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart that shows an exemplary method of operatingexemplary mobile radiographic imaging systems for acquiring projectionsimages and generating the reconstruction of three-dimensionaltomosynthesis images.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Applicants have recognized a need for a portable tomosynthesis systemsand/or methods using distributed x-ray source arrays in mobileradiographic systems and/or methods for using the same.

Mobile radiographic systems are routinely used in hospitals. Compared tostandard projection radiography, tomosynthesis provides improveddepiction of fine details not visible in normal radiographs due tooverlying structures. Such exemplary benefits of tomosynthesis providethe impetus to develop mobile tomosynthesis systems that can be utilizedin the intensive care unit, emergency department, and operating roomswhere moving patient is either impracticable or ill advised due to therisk of doing further damage to the patient.

The following is a description of exemplary embodiments of theinvention, reference being made to the drawings in which the samereference numerals identify the same elements of structure in each ofthe several figures. Where they are used, the terms “first”, “second”,and so on, do not necessarily denote any ordinal or priority relation,but may be used for more clearly distinguishing one element or timeinterval from another.

FIG. 1 is a diagram that shows a perspective view of a mobileradiography unit that can use portable radiographic detectors or flatpanel detectors according to embodiments of the application. Theexemplary mobile x-ray or radiographic apparatus of FIG. 1 can beemployed for digital radiography (DR) and/or tomosynthesis. As shown inFIG. 1, a mobile radiography apparatus 100 can include a moveabletransport frame 120 that includes a first display 110 and an optionalsecond display 110′ to display relevant information such as obtainedimages and related data. As shown in FIG. 1, the second display 110′ canbe pivotable mounted at the x-ray source 140 to be viewable/touchablefrom a 360 degree area.

The displays 110, 110′ can implement or control (e.g., touch screens)functions such as generating, storing, transmitting, modifying, andprinting of an obtained image(s) and can include an integral or separatecontrol panel (not shown) to assist in implementing functions such asgenerating, storing, transmitting, modifying, and printing of anobtained image(s).

For mobility, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can have one or morewheels 115 and one or more handle grips 125, typically provided atwaist-level, arm-level, or hand-level, that help to guide the mobileradiographic apparatus 100 to its intended location. A self-containedbattery pack (e.g., rechargeable) can provide source power, which canreduce or eliminate the need for operation near a power outlet. Further,the self-contained battery pack can provide for motorized transport.

For storage, the mobile radiographic apparatus 100 can include anarea/holder for holding/storing one or more digital radiographic (DR)detectors or computed radiography cassettes. The area/holder can bestorage area 130 (e.g., disposed on the frame 120) configured toremovably retain at least one digital radiography (DR) detector. Thestorage area 130 can be configured to hold a plurality of detectors andcan also be configured to hold one size or multiple sizes of DRdetectors and/or batteries therefore.

Mounted to frame 120 is a support column 135 that supports an x-raysource 140, also called an x-ray tube, tube head, or generator that canbe mounted to the support member 135. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,the support member (e.g., column 135) can include a second section thatextends outward a fixed/variable distance from a first section where thesecond section is configured to ride vertically up and down the firstsection to the desired height for obtaining the image. In addition, thesupport column is rotatably attached to the moveable frame 120. Inanother embodiment, the tube head or x-ray source 140 can be rotatablycoupled to the support column 135. In another exemplary embodiment, anarticulated member of the support column that bends at a joint mechanismcan allow movement of the x-ray source 140 over a range of vertical andhorizontal positions. Height settings for the x-ray source 140 can rangefrom low height for imaging feet and lower extremities to shoulderheight and above for imaging the upper body portions of patients invarious positions.

As shown in FIG. 2, for ease during transport of the mobile radiographicapparatus 100, the support member 135 and x-ray source 140 can bearranged close to frame 120. As shown in FIG. 2, the second display 110′can be in a viewable position (e.g., operable) during transport of themobile radiographic apparatus 100. When the mobile radiographicapparatus 100 is to be used, the support member 135 and x-ray source 140can be extended from the frame 120 for proper positioning (e.g., by theoperator, a user, or x-ray technician) and the second display 110′ movedto viewable position such as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a diagram that shows an exemplary embodiment of adisplay/monitor as a second display mounted to a boom assembly of amobile radiography unit according to the application. As shown in FIG.3, the second display 110′ can be mounted to a collimator 345 of anx-ray source 340 of a support member 135 of a mobile radiography unit.In one embodiment, the collimator 345 can be rotatably mounted to thex-ray source 340 so that the collimator 345 (e.g., second display 110′)can swivel at least 90 degrees, at least 180 degrees or 360 degreesplus. As shown in FIG. 3, the second display 110′ is coupled to aplurality of handles for ease of positioning. Alternatively, the seconddisplay 110′ can be mounted to (e.g., rotatably) an x-ray source 340above a collimator 345 of a boom assembly of a mobile radiography unit.

FIG. 4 is a diagram that illustrates an embodiment of a sign on screenaccording to the application. Thus, when an attempt is made to operatethe mobile x-ray imaging apparatus 100, a sign on screen 410 can bedisplayed to provide instructions to a user. As shown in FIG. 4, thesingle sign on screen 410 can provide instructions for sign on sign onand activate the mobile x-ray system 100 such as “LOGIN: Please scanyour badge or type User Name and Password at the main screen.” Exemplaryembodiments of a pass key or ID badge can include but are not intendedto be limited to a card reader such as a smart card, a magnetic stripecard, bar code data, or a proximity reader compatible with accesstechnologies such as RFID, bluetooth, wireless communication device, aproximity card, a wireless smart card, a wiegand card, a magnetic readerdevice/card, an optical reader device/card, an infrared readerdevice/card, or biometric data such as fingerprints, eye scan or thelike.

According to exemplary embodiments of the application, the first display110 and the second display 110′ can provide information such as but notlimited to: (i) general information such as date, time, environmentconditions, and the like; (ii) unit information such as model serialnumber, operating instructions, warning information, and the like; (iii)patient data, such as patient name, room number, age, blood type, andthe like; (iv) indicators such as but not limited to cart power/batteryindicators, detector status (e.g., on/off), wireless signalstrength/connectivity, grid alignment aides, cart diagnostics and/or (v)imaging/procedure information, such as the exam type, exposureinformation, and the like.

According to embodiments of the application, the first display 110 andthe second display 110′ can provide capabilities/functionality to themobile x-ray imaging apparatus 100 such as but not limited to: (i) viewand/or change x-ray exposure parameters, tube/generator/techniquesettings; (ii) view and/or change image information, such as a list ofviews (e.g., body part & projection) to perform for the patient,relevant information about those views, the ability to select a view toperform, and an x-ray image of an acquired view; (iii) display and/orchange patient information, such as: Patient Name, Room number, PatientID, date of birth (e.g., to confirm that the correct patient); (iv)display and/or change a Patient Worklist, such as a list of exams toperform and allow the user to select an exam. (In one embodiment, such apatient worklist can be automatically updated (e.g., synchronized to amaster/hospital/doctor worklist) using a wired or wirelessnetwork/connection. In one embodiment, the mobile x-ray imagingapparatus 100 can highlight/indicate new exams (e.g., on the seconddisplay 110′) upon receipt of the scheduled examination.); (v) displaygenerator/source current values and controls to change those values,such as: kVp, mA, mAs, Time. ECF, focal spot, collimator, filter, AEC,grid; (vi) display detector selection and allow the technician toselect/activate a different detector; (vii) display recently acquiredimages and allow editing of those images, exemplary acquired (e.g.,recently) or previous images can be displayed full size, partial size orwith corresponding image information; (viii) display previously acquiredimages (e.g., related prior images of a patient) and allow editing ofthose images; or (ix) display a video of what is in front of the mobilex-ray imaging apparatus 100 during transport. e.g., using a video cameralocated on the other side (e.g., front side of the mobile x-ray imagingapparatus 100). In one embodiment, the mobile x-ray system 100 caninclude a collision avoidance system with alerts (e.g., audible,visual), and automatic maneuvering to avoid contact in the examiningroom (e.g., by stopping or course modification).

FIGS. 5-8 are diagrams that illustrate exemplary non-limitingrepresentative functions illustrated on an embodiment of a first displayand/or a second display of a mobile x-ray imaging apparatus. As shown inFIG. 5, an example of a work list is shown on a monitor of the seconddisplay 110′. As shown in FIG. 6, an example of a newexamination/procedure information/requirement for that technician and/orpatient is shown on a monitor of the second display 110′. As shown inFIG. 7, an example of x-ray source controls is shown on a monitor of thesecond display 110′. As shown in FIG. 8, an example of newly acquiredimage and patient information is shown on a monitor of the seconddisplay 110′.

In one embodiment, the mobile radiographic imaging apparatus can beoperated/controlled by programmed control logic in the first or seconddisplays. For example, the programmed control logic can include aprocessor and display, an integrated computer system, or a portablecomputer and applications to operate thereon.

FIG. 9 is a diagram that shows a perspective view of a mobileradiography unit that can provide a tomosynthesis capability accordingto embodiments of the application. In one embodiment, a mobileradiography unit that can further operate as a tomosynthesis system. Asshown in FIG. 9, an embodiment of a mobile radiographic/tomosynthesissystem 900 is shown that can include a movable transport frame 920.Mounted to the moveable transport frame 920 can be a support column thatsupports an x-ray source assembly 940. As shown in FIG. 9, a supportcolumn 930 can include a second section 930 b that extends outward afixed/variable distance from a first section 930 a, where the secondsection 930 b is configured to move (e.g., ride vertically) up and downthe first section 930 a to the desired height for obtaining theprojection images. The system also includes a digital x-ray detector 950that is wirelessly (e.g., or wired, tethered) connected to a systemcontroller 915 contained inside the moveable transport frame 920. Thesystem controller 915 can implement and/or control the functionality ofthe mobile radiographic/tomosynthesis system 900 (e.g., functionalityprovided through a console or control displays 100, 100′). The systemcontroller 915 can be provided though one or more of a conventionalgeneral purpose processor, digital computer, microprocessor, RISCprocessor, signal processor, CPU, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), videodigital signal processor (VDSP) and/or similar computational machines,programmed according to the teachings of the application, as will beapparent to those skilled in the relevant art(s).

In certain exemplary embodiments of mobile radiography units that canprovide a tomosynthesis capability, a moveable mounted x-ray source can,in addition, be supplied with a plurality of multiple individuallycontrolled x-rays sources (e.g., a distributed x-ray source array). FIG.9 shows an embodiment of a mobile tomosynthesis system where multipleindividually controlled x-rays sources comprise distributed x-raysources (e.g., linearly distributed). As shown in FIG. 9, an x-raysource assembly can include a plurality of distributed x-ray powersources where at least one central source of the distributed x-ray powersources has full (e.g., standard) x-ray power. The central source canhave a wide range of kVp settings, such as from 50 kVp to 150 kVp. andhigh maximum mA output, such as from 10 mA to 400 mA, in order toaccommodate many different exam types for general radiography. Thedistributed sources can be arrayed in a prescribed spatial relationship.The distributed sources can be a lower power x-ray sources, which meansa narrow range of kVp settings, such as from 60 kVp to 120 kVp. andlower maximum mA output, such as from 1 mA to 100 mA. Thus, as shown inFIG. 9, a mobile radiographic/tomosynthesis system 900 can include oneor more, and preferably all of the capabilities of the mobileradiographic system 100 shown in FIG. 1. The x-ray source assembly 940can use collimator(s) to form beams that are directed towards thedetector 950 and/or patient P. The x-ray source assembly 940 may alsoinclude positioning, such as motors, which allow for directing the beamtowards the detector 950 and/or patient P. The moveable transport frame920 can include a first display 910, which can control at least thex-ray source assembly 940. Further, the system controller 915 cancoordinate operations of the x-ray source assembly 940, detector 950,and moveable transport frame 920 (e.g., via operator actions using thefirst display 910). The system controller 915 can control operations ofthe x-ray source assembly, which may include the collimator, positioningdevices and triggering of image acquisition by emission of x-rays fromthe sources. For example, the system controller 915 can control x-rayemission for CT imaging procedures and/or for general radiographyimaging procedures. The system controller 915 also can controloperations of the detector 950, which may include triggering of theimage acquisition and transmission of the acquired images back to thecontroller. In addition, the system controller 915 can control themovement of the transport frame 920.

FIG. 10 is a diagram that shows exemplary mobile radiographic imagingsystems including an x-ray source assembly that can include first andsecond (e.g., multiple) radiographic x-ray sources. As shown in FIG. 10,an x-ray source assembly 1040 of a mobile radiographic imaging systemcan include a first radiographic x-ray source and collimator, and asecond x-ray source comprising a distributed sources (e.g., rectangle)that can be individually adjusted (e.g., collimated) and eitherpermanently attached or attached (e.g., detachable) when needed. Asshown in FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the first radiographic x-ray sourcecan be a central one of the distributed sources. Alternatively, thefirst radiographic x-ray source is positioned at a center of the secondarray of distributed sources. As shown in FIG. 10, the firstradiographic x-ray source can be a mobile/portable x-ray source/tube andbe a different type of x-ray source from the second distributed array oflower power carbon-nanotube x-ray sources.

FIG. 11 is a diagram that shows exemplary mobile radiographic imagingsystems including an x-ray source assembly that can include first andsecond (e.g., multiple) radiographic x-ray sources. In one embodiment anx-ray source assembly 1140 of a mobile radiographic imaging system caninclude a directed first radiographic x-ray source and a directed secondx-ray source comprising a distributed source attachment (e.g., linear)that can be either permanently attached or attached (detachable) whenneeded. As shown in FIG. 11, the first radiographic x-ray source can bepositioned at a center of the array of distributed sources. In oneembodiment, the first radiographic x-ray source can be a central one ofthe distributed sources. In one embodiment, the plurality of distributedx-ray sources can be mounted along a support. In one embodiment, theplurality of distributed x-ray sources can have a prescribed spatialrelationship, where the prescribed spatial relationship is one or morelinear tracks, 2D tracks, curves, polygons, rectangles or 3D paths. Inone embodiment, collimated distributed sources can be on a curvedsupport to maintain a single distance from a corresponding point on adetector. Exemplary distributed source attachment can have a firstposition for use and a second position for storage (e.g., folded) whennot used.

Referring to FIG. 12, a flow chart that shows an exemplary method ofacquiring projections images and generating the reconstruction ofthree-dimensional tomosynthesis images, will now be described. Themethod for acquiring projections images and generating thereconstruction of three-dimensional tomosynthesis images will bedescribed using embodiments of mobile radiography apparatus shown inFIGS. 9-12 and can be applied to mobile x-ray systems/carts shown inFIGS. 1 and 9-12; however, the method of FIG. 12 is not intended to belimited thereby.

As shown in FIG. 12, the detector and x-ray source assembly can bepositioned (operation block 1210). For example, the x-ray source can bemoved to its initial position and the detector can be positioned suchthat the patient P is interposed between the detector and x-ray source.

For exemplary mobile radiographic/tomosynthesis system embodiments 900,the initial x-ray source assembly position can be set by the location ofthe transport frame and the support column. The height, extent androtation positioning of the support column's first section 930 a and thesecond section 930 can be used to position the x-ray source assembly tothe initial desired location above the patient.

Then, a series of projections image can be acquired at different x-raysource positions (operation block 1220). In embodiment 900, theprojection images can be acquired while individual x-ray sources aretriggered. In one embodiment, the first radiographic x-ray source canoperate as a central one of the distributed sources. In one embodiment,the first radiographic x-ray source can be a central one of thedistributed sources.

Then, the acquired projection image data can be received (e.g.,transferred back from the detector to the system) by control andprocessing components of the system controller (operation block 1230).The projection images can be displayed on display 110 and/or undergo aquality check (e.g., automated or by the operator) before being furtherprocessed. The projection image data may also be processed at operationblock 1230 to permit raw, partially-processed or fully-processed imagesor tomosynthesis slices to be stored (e.g., temporality at the detector)and/or sent to remote locations.

Then, tomosynthesis image reconstruction can be performed (e.g.,real-time) using the acquired corrected projection image data (operationblock 1240). Image reconstruction can use processes similar to thoseused for conventional tomosynthesis imaging. For example, as will beappreciated by those skilled in the art, backprojection, filteredbackprojection or other known reconstruction techniques may be used. Inone exemplary embodiments, a particular position of the source withrespect to the detector can be determined by knowledge of the positionof the x-ray source assembly and the detector based upon the values setby an operator, automatically determined such as by using a gridalignment system to adjust the values or by a tethered connectiontherebetween.

Then, the reconstruction volume can be displayed on display 110, 110′(operation block 1250) and/or undergo a quality check before displayingthe volume. In one embodiment, the reconstruction volume can be storedafter the quality check (e.g., before display thereof). Further, thedisplay can be used to view underlying projection images or projectionimages generated by the system, or the tomosynthesis reconstructionsthemselves. Further, underlying data and/or reconstructed tomosynthesisimages can be transmitted to a remote system.

Exemplary mobile radiographic systems can include a portable x-raygenerator/cart/tube/source machine and a wireless digital detector. Theportable tomosynthesis capability/system can be configured by adding adistributed x-ray source array (e.g., to a mobile radiographic cart).The mobile tomosynthesis capability/system is configured to capture aseries of relatively lower x-ray exposures of a patient's anatomy over awide angle in rapid succession. In operation, the distributed x-raysource array can allow a sequence of images to be captured in rapidsuccession without requiring the x-ray source/assembly to move. Once theimage sequence is captured, the images can be reconstructed into slicedata of the anatomy, which can then be interpreted by a radiologist orICU physician, at the site or remotely. Thus, certain exemplaryembodiments herein can provide a single imaging system including a firstmode of operations for general radiography projection imaging of anobject (e.g., using the capabilities described with respect to at leastFIG. 1) and a second mode of operations for x-ray tomosynthesis imagingof an object (e.g., using the capabilities described with respect to atleast FIG. 9).

In certain exemplary embodiments, a mobile radiographic imaging systemincluding a tomosynthesis capability can support critically ill patientsin an ICU that are currently transported out of ICU for x-ray imaging.For example, ICU patients can receive a tomosysthesis procedure in theICU that might otherwise be transported out of ICU in order to obtain aCT exam. For example, CT imaging is often needed for ICU patients inorder to differentiate various types of fluids induced by pluraleffusions, such as blood, water, and the like, so that correctiveactions can be taken. However, transporting ICU patients to the CT examarea can be a challenging task because of their severe clinicalconditions. Further, visualization software can be provided tofacilitate interpretation of ICU-related chest abnormalities. Forinstance, presentation of the low exposure sequences (prior toreconstruction of the slide data) can allows the ICU physician (local orremote) to “look around” rib structures and the like.

For such reasons. Applicants have recognized that it is highly desirableto have a three-dimensional imaging modality at the bedside directly inthe ICU department so a patient does not have to be moved unnecessarily.Applicants have devised a portable bedside tomosynthesis, by modifyingexemplary digital mobile radiographic systems, for example, by adding acombined x-ray source assembly.

Tomosynthesis requires features such as precise measurements of thex-ray source/tube focal point position, x-ray pointing direction,detector position and orientation, and source-to-detector distance.These features needed for tomosynthesis, however, are a challenge forportable or mobile digital imaging systems where the detector does nothave any mechanical link to the x-ray source/tube.

Applicants have further recognized that advancements in grid alignmentdevelopment for mobile/portable radiographic imaging provide for precisealignment of the x-ray source/tube and the portable detector/grid.Accordingly, certain exemplary embodiments herein can provide a systemconfigured to detect the x-ray source/tube position and orientationrelative the detector within mm precision, which can be sufficient forthe tomosynthesis application. Embodiments disclosed herein can berelated to and/or incorporate capabilities in pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/283,654, Alignment Apparatus for X-ray ImagingSystem, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in itsentirety. Alternatively, suitable grid alignment methods can use RFtriangulation, optical reference markers, ultrasound, and the like forposition reporting.

Additional exemplary features of a mobile radiographic imaging systemembodiments including a tomosynthesis capability can include: computeraided analysis of the slide data to differentiate among various pleuraland airway abnormalities; automatic detection of tube and catheter tipplacements and automatic notification to the ICU physician if a tube orcatheter tip is misplaced; and/or a central X-ray source on the arraythat has full (standard) X-ray power such that the system can be usedfor capturing a standard exams (e.g., portable chest-ray). Certainexemplary embodiments herein can further provide a human interfacedevice coupled to the console or system controller to allow displayand/or manipulation to control such tomosynthesis capabilities.

Applicants have noted that such exemplary embodiments described hereinare desirable in an intensive care unit (ICU), where chest x-rays areoften acquired. Accordingly, in one embodiment, a mobileradiographic/tomosynthesis system can be focused on the chest.

Exemplary implementations of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 can includespatial extent of spar or support for the distributed tomosynthesisx-ray sources, which can be lower power sources providing mAs pernanotube x-ray source, a number of sources, a wireless digital detector,a grid & alignment system, and a mobile cart/device with portable x-raysource/tube.

Various exemplary embodiments described herein can illustrate individualmodes of operation. In certain exemplary embodiments, more than one modecan be provided in/by a single mobile radiographic imaging system and/ormethods for using the same.

Consistent with at least one embodiment, exemplary systems/methods canuse a computer program with stored instructions that perform on imagedata that is accessed from an electronic memory. As can be appreciatedby those skilled in the image processing arts, a computer program of anembodiment of the present invention can be utilized by a suitable,general-purpose computer system, such as a personal computer orworkstation. However, many other types of computer systems can be usedto execute the computer program of the present invention, including anarrangement of networked processors, for example. The computer programfor performing the method of the present invention may be stored in acomputer readable storage medium. This medium may comprise, for example;magnetic storage media such as a magnetic disk such as a hard drive orremovable device or magnetic tape; optical storage media such as anoptical disc, optical tape, or machine readable optical encoding; solidstate electronic storage devices such as random access memory (RAM), orread only memory (ROM); or any other physical device or medium employedto store a computer program. The computer program for performing themethod of the present invention may also be stored on computer readablestorage medium that is connected to the image processor by way of theinternet or other network or communication medium. Those skilled in theart will further readily recognize that the equivalent of such acomputer program product may also be constructed in hardware.

It should be noted that the term “memory”, equivalent to“computer-accessible memory” in the context of the present disclosure,can refer to any type of temporary or more enduring data storageworkspace used for storing and operating upon image data and accessibleto a computer system, including a database, for example. The memorycould be non-volatile, using, for example, a long-term storage mediumsuch as magnetic or optical storage. Alternately, the memory could be ofa more volatile nature, using an electronic circuit, such asrandom-access memory (RAM) that is used as a temporary buffer orworkspace by a microprocessor or other control logic processor device.Display data, for example, is typically stored in a temporary storagebuffer that is directly associated with a display device and isperiodically refreshed as needed in order to provide displayed data.This temporary storage buffer can also be considered to be a memory, asthe term is used in the present disclosure. Memory is also used as thedata workspace for executing and storing intermediate and final resultsof calculations and other processing. Computer-accessible memory can bevolatile, non-volatile, or a hybrid combination of volatile andnon-volatile types.

It will be understood that computer program products of this applicationmay make use of various image manipulation algorithms and processes thatare well known. It will be further understood that exemplary computerprogram product embodiments herein may embody algorithms and processesnot specifically shown or described herein that are useful forimplementation. Such algorithms and processes may include conventionalutilities that are within the ordinary skill of the image processingarts. Additional aspects of such algorithms and systems, and hardwareand/or software for producing and otherwise processing the images orco-operating with the computer program product of the present invention,are not specifically shown or described herein and may be selected fromsuch algorithms, systems, hardware, components and elements known in theart.

Exemplary functions performed by the diagrams of FIG. 12, the systemprocessor or the mobile radiographic unit may be implemented, forexample, but not limited to using one or more of a conventional generalpurpose processor, digital computer, microprocessor, microcontroller,RISC (reduced instruction set computer) processor, CISC (complexinstruction set computer) processor, SIMD (single instruction multipledata) processor, signal processor, central processing unit (CPU),arithmetic logic unit (ALU). GPU, video digital signal processor (VDSP)and/or similar computational machines, programmed according to theteachings of the present specification, as will be apparent to thoseskilled in the relevant art(s). Appropriate software, firmware, coding,routines, instructions, opcodes, microcode, and/or program modules mayreadily be prepared by skilled programmers based on the teachings of thepresent disclosure, as will also be apparent to those skilled in therelevant art(s). The software is generally executed from a medium orseveral media by one or more of the processors of the machineimplementation.

It should be noted that while the application description and examplesare primarily directed to radiographic medical imaging of a human orother subject, embodiments of apparatus and methods of the applicationcan also be applied to other radiographic imaging applications. Thisincludes applications such as non-destructive testing (NDT), for whichradiographic images may be obtained and provided with differentprocessing treatments in order to accentuate different features of theimaged subject.

While the invention has been illustrated with respect to one or moreimplementations, alterations and/or modifications can be made to theillustrated examples without departing from the spirit and scope of theappended claims. In addition, while a particular feature of theinvention can have been disclosed with respect to only one of severalimplementations/embodiments, such feature can be combined with one ormore other features of the other implementations/embodiments as can bedesired and advantageous for any given or particular function. The term“at least one of” is used to mean one or more of the listed items can beselected. The term “about” indicates that the value listed can besomewhat altered, as long as the alteration does not result innonconformance of the process or structure to the illustratedembodiment. Finally, “exemplary” indicates the description is used as anexample, rather than implying that it is an ideal. Other embodiments ofthe invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art fromconsideration of the specification and practice of the inventiondisclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples beconsidered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of theinvention being indicated by the following claims.

1. A mobile x-ray radiography system, comprising: a moveable transportframe comprising wheels configured to move the transport frame over asurface to an intended location; an adjustable support structure coupledto the moveable transport frame, the adjustable support structureconfigured to be rotatable with respect to the transport frame; an x-raysource assembly mounted to the adjustable support structure, wherein theadjustable support structure allows movement of the x-ray sourceassembly over a range of independent vertical and horizontal positions,the x-ray source assembly configured to direct x-ray radiation toward asubject from a plurality of different sources, the X-ray source assemblyincluding: a first type x-ray source configured to emit x-ray radiationat a first power level from a first position toward the subject togenerate a projection radiographic image of the subject, and a pluralityof second type distributed x-ray sources all disposed to one side of thefirst type x-ray source and each configured to emit x-ray radiationtoward the subject at a second power level less than the first powerlevel to generate multiple projection images used for reconstruction oftomosynthesis images, the first type x-ray source and the plurality ofsecond type distributed x-ray sources fixed in a spatial relationshiprelative to each other, wherein the second type distributed x-raysources are configured to emit x-ray radiation one at a time toward thesubject; processing circuitry at the mobile x-ray radiography systemconfigured to receive any projection radiographic image of the subjectand any multiple projection images of the subject used forreconstruction of tomosynthesis images, wherein the processing circuitryis configured to reconstruct a tomosynthesis image of the subject at themobile radiography apparatus; and a portable power supply configured toprovide power for the mobile x-ray radiography system.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising a user interface device coupled to theprocessing circuitry, the user interface device configured to receiveinputs from a user to initiate the capture of the multiple projectionimages used for the reconstruction of the tomosynthesis images.
 3. Themobile x-ray radiography system of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofsecond type distributed x-ray sources are fixed in a linear arrangementto one side of the first type x-ray source.
 4. The mobile x-rayradiography system of claim 1, further comprising a digital radiographicdetector disposed proximate a subject to capture the multiple projectionimages of the subject used for reconstruction of tomosynthesis images ofthe subject.
 5. The mobile x-ray radiography system of claim 4, whereinthe digital radiographic detector is configured to wirelessly transmitthe captured multiple projection images of the subject to the processingcircuitry.
 6. The mobile x-ray radiography system of claim 4, whereinthe digital radiographic detector comprises electronic memory to storethe captured multiple projection images of the subject.
 7. The mobilex-ray radiography system of claim 4, wherein the digital radiographicdetector is tethered by wire to the mobile x-ray radiography system totransmit the captured multiple projection images of the subject to theprocessing circuitry.
 8. The mobile x-ray radiography system of claim 4,wherein the x-ray source assembly and the digital radiographic detectorare configured to each remain stationary while capturing the multipleprojection images of the subject.
 9. The mobile x-ray radiography systemof claim 1, wherein the plurality of second type distributed x-raysources each comprise a carbon nanotube.
 10. The mobile x-rayradiography system of claim 9, wherein the first type x-ray sourcecomprises a standard projection radiography x-ray source.
 11. A mobilex-ray radiography system, comprising: a wheeled transport frame; anadjustable support structure coupled to the moveable transport frame; anx-ray source assembly comprising a plurality of different x-ray sources,the x-ray source assembly mounted to the adjustable support structure,wherein the adjustable support structure is configured to allow movementof the x-ray source assembly over a range of independent vertical andhorizontal positions, and wherein the plurality of different x-raysources includes: a first x-ray source configured to emit full powerx-rays for projection radiography; and a plurality of distributed x-raysources disposed in a fixed spatial relationship proximate the firstx-ray source, the plurality of distributed x-ray sources each configuredto emit x-rays having a lower power than the first x-ray source togenerate a projection image data set used for reconstruction oftomosynthesis images; processing circuitry at the mobile x-rayradiography system configured to receive a projection radiographic imageacquired by using the first x-ray source and to receive the projectionimage data set acquired by using the plurality of distributed x-raysources; and a portable power supply configured to power the mobilex-ray radiography system, wherein the processing circuitry is configuredto process the received projection radiographic image at the mobileradiography apparatus, and to reconstruct a tomosynthesis image from thereceived projection image data set at the mobile radiography apparatus.12. The system of claim 11, further comprising a user interfaceconfigured to receive inputs from a user to initiate acquisition of theprojection radiographic image and the projection image data set.
 13. Themobile x-ray radiography system of claim 11, wherein the distributedx-ray sources are fixed in a V formation to one side of the first x-raysource.
 14. The mobile x-ray radiography system of claim 1, furthercomprising a digital radiographic detector disposed proximate a subjectto capture the projection radiographic image of the subject and theprojection image data set of the subject.
 15. The mobile x-rayradiography system of claim 14, wherein the digital radiographicdetector is configured to wirelessly transmit the captured projectionradiographic image of the subject and the projection image data set ofthe subject.
 16. The mobile x-ray radiography system of claim 14,wherein the digital radiographic detector comprises electronic memory tostore the captured projection radiographic image of the subject and theprojection image data set of the subject.
 17. The mobile x-rayradiography system of claim 14, wherein the digital radiographicdetector is tethered by wire to the mobile x-ray radiography system totransmit the captured projection radiographic image of the subject andthe projection image data set of the subject.
 18. The mobile x-rayradiography system of claim 14, wherein the x-ray source assembly andthe digital radiographic detector are configured to each remainstationary while capturing the projection radiographic image of thesubject and the projection image data set of the subject.
 19. The mobilex-ray radiography system of claim 11, wherein the plurality ofdistributed x-ray sources each comprise a carbon nanotube.
 20. Themobile x-ray radiography system of claim 19, wherein the processingcircuitry is configured to wirelessly transmit the received andprocessed projection radiographic image, the reconstructed tomosynthesisimage, or both.